THE Lodge Namoi Freemasons debutante ball has been celebrated for 52 years in Narrabri and the treasured tradition continued on Saturday night.
“It is something our community can be incredibly proud of and it is wonderful to see the Masonic debutante ball remain such an important event in the social calendar of the Narrabri Shire,” said ball co-coordinator Jordan Rex.
“It is a reflection of the strength of our community, the traditions we value, and the support we continue to show one another.
“To our debutantes and their partners – congratulations.
“Enjoy every moment of tonight, it is a memory you will carry with you for the rest of your lives.”
Seventeen debutantes were presented to very worshipful brother Henry Trow of the Freemasons.
“To the parents, families, and friends of our debutantes and their partners, thank you for your unwavering support, encouragement, and patience throughout the year,” said Mr Rex.
“It has been a privilege to watch these young people grow in confidence and prepare for tonight.
“I am sure you would all agree that they have represented themselves, their families, and our community with pride.”
Mr Rex thanked Narrabri Shire mayor Darrell Tiemens for attending the event, held at The Crossing Theatre, and praised dedicated dance instructor Kim Owens.
“Somehow, you manage to turn two left feet into graceful dancers performing the gypsy tap and the waltz,” he said.
“A night like tonight would not be possible without the many people who have worked tirelessly
behind the scenes.”
Mr Rex acknowledged the members of Lodge Namoi’s Arch of Steel for their continued support ‘ensuring this long-standing tradition continues’.
“And thank you to The Crossing Theatre and Narrabri High School for allowing us to use your facilities throughout our rehearsals and preparations.
“To John Burgess, thank you for capturing the special memories of tonight.
“To our wonderful matron of honour Elizabeth Shepherdson and to our flower girl Hallie McMillan
and page boy Noah Shepherdson – you have all done an outstanding job this evening and should be incredibly proud.”
Debutante Bella Bakhus and partner Chayce Browning spoke beautifully, recognising the many volunteers and supporters who made the Lodge Namoi debutante ball possible, thanking the long-serving committee members, dance teacher Kim Owens, the coordinators and behind-the-scenes organisers who dedicated months to rehearsals and preparations.
Calling the night ‘an experience we will always treasure’, the pair said the ball was a true community effort and a milestone they would remember for the rest of their lives.
Bella brought a touching full-circle moment to the evening, reflecting on how she was a flower girl at the Lodge Namoi debutante Ball and now returned as a debutante, watching her own niece (Hallie McMillan) take on the same special role.
“Exactly 10 years ago, I was the flower girl alongside Jordan’s son, who was the page boy, at my sister’s debutante ball,” said Bella.
“I never imagined that 10 years later I would be standing here as a debutante, giving this speech,” she added.
Mr Rex praised the master of ceremonies Steve Earther, for keeping everyone entertained while making sure proceedings ran smoothly.
Years of commitment by former ball coordinator, Michaelle Wheeler, were highlighted.
Mr Rex expressed his gratitude to Mrs Wheeler for assisting him and fellow ball coordinator Alex Varcoe, offering guidance and answering ‘many questions along the way’.
“Michelle, thank you for everything you have done for this event over the years,” he added.
“Finally, there is one person I simply could not finish without thanking: my partner and fellow ball coordinator, Alex. Thank you for your dedication, commitment, countless late nights, and unwavering support throughout this journey.
“Thank you once again to everyone who has contributed to making this evening possible.
“May tonight leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.”
